Origin and Common Names
Pteleopsis anisoptera, also known as the African cherry, is a tree species that is endemic to the tropical regions of Africa. It can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, and the Republic of Congo. The plant is commonly known as African cherry due to the resemblance of its fruit to the cherry.Appearance
The African cherry tree can grow to a height of up to 30 meters. It has a cylindrical trunk with a diameter that ranges from 50 to 80 cm. The bark is brownish-gray and rough, with deep vertical fissures. The leaves of the tree are simple, alternate, and glossy, with a length of about 10-20 cm and a width of 5-10 cm. The flowers of the plant are small, greenish-yellow, and grow in panicles. The fruit is a fleshy drupe that resembles a cherry, with an oval shape and a reddish-brown color. The fruit usually has one or two seeds within.Uses
Pteleopsis anisoptera has various medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments in traditional African medicine. The bark and leaves are used to treat fever, cough, and diarrhea, while the roots are used to treat malaria and stomach problems. The fruit of the African cherry tree is edible and has a sweet and sour taste. It is eaten fresh or used to make juice, jellies, and jams. The bark of the tree is also used to make traditional dyes for clothing and baskets. In addition to its medicinal and food uses, the African cherry tree is also used for timber. The wood is hard and durable, making it suitable for construction, furniture, and boat building. Overall, Pteleopsis anisoptera is a valuable plant species with various uses and benefits.Light Requirements
Pteleopsis anisoptera prefers bright but indirect light. It can tolerate partial shade as well. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, so it is best to place the plant in a location that receives filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Pteleopsis anisoptera requires a temperature range of 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It is best to keep the plant in a location where the temperature remains consistent throughout the day. Avoid placing it in areas that experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Pteleopsis anisoptera thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can also tolerate soil that is mildly alkaline. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation of Pteleopsis anisoptera
Pteleopsis anisoptera, commonly known as Forest pteleopsis, is a hardy plant that can thrive in various conditions. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa and is a perfect choice for beginners in gardening.
The plant grows well in areas where there is partial to full sunlight exposure, and the soil is well-draining. It is crucial to choose a site that is not too wet since the plant does not do well in environments with an abundance of water.
Watering Needs
Forest pteleopsis requires occasional watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. It is advisable to water the plant once the top layer of soil has become dry. You should avoid overwatering the plant since it is prone to root rot, which can cause significant damage.
You can use a watering can or a drip irrigation system to irrigate the plant. Using a drip irrigation system is more efficient since it ensures that water reaches the plant's roots without causing unnecessary splashing, which can lead to the spread of diseases.
Fertilization
To achieve optimal growth and performance, Forest pteleopsis requires regular fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer, which provides an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen helps the plant to produce more leaves, phosphorus promotes flower and fruit growth, while potassium aids in strengthening the plant's roots, stems, and leaves.
Fertilizing should be done in the early spring, summer, and fall months. You should avoid applying fertilizer during the winter since the plant is in a period of dormancy and is not actively growing.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the shape and size of the plant and promoting overall health. You should prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
During pruning, you should remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. You should also cut back any overgrown branches to encourage more bushy growth and increase airflow within the plant, which promotes health. It is advisable to use sharp, clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
It is crucial to avoid cutting off more than one-third of the plant at a time since this can cause damage and lead to the plant's death.
Propagation of Pteleopsis anisoptera
Pteleopsis anisoptera (Welw. ex M.A.Lawson) Engl. & Diels is a tropical tree species that is known for its strong wood and wide range of uses. Propagation of this species can be carried out through different methods including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Pteleopsis anisoptera through seeds is the most common method. The seeds are collected from mature trees, dried, and treated with fungicide. The seeds are then planted in a well-prepared nursery bed with good drainage. The seedlings are transplanted to the field after six to eight months.
Cutting propagation
Propagation through cuttings is another method that is used for Pteleopsis anisoptera. Semi-hardwood cuttings that are 20-25 cm long and have 3-4 nodes are taken from mature trees. The cuttings are treated with rooting hormone and planted in a nursery bed with good drainage. The cuttings should be kept moist and well-shaded until they develop roots. The rooted cuttings are then transplanted to the field after six to eight months.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is another method that is used in the propagation of Pteleopsis anisoptera. It involves taking a scion from a mature tree of the desired variety and grafting it onto a rootstock. The rootstock used in Pteleopsis anisoptera is usually Pteleopsis suberosa or Pteleopsis hylodendron. Grafting is done during the rainy season, and the grafted plants are kept shaded until they establish well.
Overall, propagation of Pteleopsis anisoptera can be carried out through different methods including seed, cutting, and grafting. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, and it is up to the grower to decide which method is suitable for their situation.
Disease Management
Pteleopsis anisoptera is susceptible to a few diseases that can cause various levels of damage to the plant. These diseases include powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the surface of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and apply fungicide to prevent further spread.
Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly-drained soil. It affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and ultimately leading to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to check the soil moisture regularly and avoid overwatering. Applying fungicide can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot: This is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as small, dark spots on the leaves that may enlarge and cause the leaves to drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is important to remove the infected leaves and apply fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Pteleopsis anisoptera can also be affected by a few pests, including scales, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Scales: These are small, immobile insects that infest the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap and causing the plant to weaken. To manage these pests, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to prevent further infestation.
Mealybugs: These are small, soft-bodied insects that also suck the sap from the plant. The pests leave behind a white, powdery residue on the leaves. To manage these pests, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent further infestation.
Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like insects that infest the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is recommended to prune the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to prevent further infestation.
